Meet Dr. Nicole Saphier, Trump's new surgeon general nominee

May 1, 2026 - 18:21

President Donald Trump has selected Dr. Nicole Saphier as his third nominee for the position of U.S. surgeon general. The announcement places the Fox News medical contributor and radiologist at the center of the nation's top public health advisory role, pending Senate confirmation.

Saphier, who currently serves as an associate professor at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, has been a familiar face on conservative media. She often appeared on Fox News to discuss COVID-19 policy, vaccine skepticism, and the administration's health agenda. Her nomination follows two previous picks that failed to advance through the confirmation process.

Supporters highlight her clinical background in breast imaging and her outspoken criticism of lockdown measures during the pandemic. Critics, however, point to her lack of experience in public health administration and her history of downplaying vaccine efficacy. If confirmed, Saphier would replace Dr. Vivek Murthy, who served under the Biden administration.

The surgeon general role does not require Senate approval, but nominees typically face hearings. Saphier's confirmation battle is expected to draw sharp partisan lines, given her media profile and alignment with Trump's health policies. The White House has not yet set a timeline for the nomination process.